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James Barnes
James Barnes
aka Barney
  • Zwift ranking 20th
  • 5 sec power 1088 w
  • 15 sec power 710 w
  • 1 min power 454 w
  • 20 min power 400 w
  • Hometown (current) Auckland, New Zealand
  • - Born Johannesburg, South Africa
  • Profession Microsoft Dynamics 365 Functional Consultant
  • (aka IT)
My Story

Been riding since the age of 10 and never looked back. It has been a big part of my life. My first job was working weekends at Local Bike Shop then ended up running their workshop. After the bicycle industry for many years I moved into IT. Currently living in Auckland, New Zealand. Love all forms for cycling. Other passions involve gaming, technology and anything that has moving parts. Enjoy sharing my passion and love for cycling with others.

How you discovered Zwift

Came across the announcement for Zwift Beta applications one evening when trawling the Cycling News websites. I knew I had to sign up and get in there as it combined my love for gaming and cycling. Fondly remember the Jarvis Island days chasing the blue bots lap after lap.

Real life athletics background

Started cycling events and training at the age of 10 and never stopped from there. First big event was the 2002 94.7 Cycle Challenge riding with my father on his old Italian downtube shifter with oval rings. We completed it in 4h35min. Never looked back and never stopped. Competed every year until 2018 when I moved to Auckland, NZ. 2015 was my first year racing with the Elite bunch, 2017 I discovered Track Cycling and fell in love with the tactical nature of the various events. Completed the Absa Cape Epic (2016 and 2019). My main goal with cycling was always for enjoyment and love/passion for the sport, being able to share it with others was just a bonus.

Fun Fact:
Rocked up to a 2 day MTB stage race and discovered I left my shoes at home. My fiance lovingly offered me her shoes because she said I stood a better chance of a podium than her. Managed to squeeze my EU46 feet into her EU40 shoe. Pretty sure this was the reason for me winning the overall race as I just wanted to free my feet from the torture.

Cycling Achievements
  • 2 x wins in Zwift Premier League
  • 2020
    Team Overall 2nd – Individual Race 1st x 2, 2nd x 3 in Dynamo
  • 2019
    3rd place in East Rand Classic
  • 2019
    Finisher in Absa Cape Epic
  • 2016
    Finisher in Absa Cape Epic